When I first wrote about digital subscriptions by newspaper publishers years ago I noted that if I was doing it I’d bundle the offer with a tablet. This explains why I like offer promoted in the Herald Sun today – and, I am guessing, other News Corp. products.
This is a smart offer and essential to uptake and engagement. I’d be surprised if it does not work.
Owning your route to market is key for any newspaper selling digital subs to consumers who could be challenges with other channels. It’s also a terrific ‘gift’ to drive up-take.
Thinking ahead and considering the disposability of mobile devices, a free tablet with every year-long subscription has to be on the horizon.
Yes, I understand newsagents are not part of this story. It does’t matter as we have an abundance of opportunities of our own and print for titles like the Herald Sun has a good future for the foreseeable future.
Mark, do you not see this promotion as a threat to the print edition of the Herald Sun?
Amanda in the longer term I do see it as a threat. However, If I was News Corp. I’d do exactly the same thing. What we need to do is to do our own thing on driving our own new traffic and not always doing exactly what publishers tell us to do.
Treason
Rick it’s business. Newsagents have to expect that suppliers will put their needs ahead of yours – just as you should put your needs ahead of suppliers.
Was tongue in cheek